Connection device, cartridge and electronic vaping device

ABSTRACT

At least one example embodiment discloses a cartridge for an electronic vapor (e-vapor) apparatus. The cartridge includes a pre-vapor formulation compartment configured to hold a solution therein and a first connector element configured to connect the cartridge to a power section of the e-vapor apparatus. The first connector element includes a processing device configured to communicate with the power section.

PRIORITY

This is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/136,029 filedApr. 22, 2016, which is a non-provisional patent application that claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to provisional U.S. application Nos.62/151,160 filed on Apr. 22, 2015 and 62/151,179 filed on Apr. 22, 2015,both in the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the entirecontents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

At least some example embodiments relate generally to an e-vapingdevice.

Related Art

Electronic vaping devices are used to vaporize a pre-vapor formulationmaterial into a vapor. These electronic vaping devices may be referredto as e-vaping devices. E-vaping devices include a heater whichvaporizes a pre-vapor formulation to produce a vapor. An e-vaping devicemay include several e-vaping elements including a power source, acartridge or e-vaping tank including the heater and along with areservoir capable of holding the pre-vapor formulation.

SUMMARY

At least some example embodiments relate to an e-vaping device.

At least one example embodiment discloses a cartridge for an electronicvapor (e-vapor) apparatus. The cartridge includes a pre-vaporformulation compartment configured to hold a pre-vapor formulationtherein and a first connector element configured to connect thecartridge to a power section of the e-vapor apparatus, the firstconnector element including a processing device configured tocommunicate with the power section.

In an example embodiment, the cartridge further includes at least onepower connector configured to connect to the power section, the powerconnector being coupled to the processing device.

In an example embodiment, the processing device is under the at leastone power connector.

In an example embodiment, the first connector element includes a firstportion and a second portion divided by an indented portion of the firstconnector, the indented portion defining an opening between the firstportion and the second portion, the at least one power connector extendsfrom the first portion to the second portion, and the processing deviceis coupled to the at least one power connector in the first portion.

In an example embodiment, the at least one power connector includes twopronged elements and the processing device is in contact with a singlepronged element of the two pronged elements.

In an example embodiment, the processing device is not connected to aprinted circuit board (PCB).

In an example embodiment, the processing device is a cryptographiccoprocessor with non-volatile memory (CC-NVM).

In an example embodiment, the CC-NVM is configured to adjustcryptographic keys based on vaping parameters.

In an example embodiment, the processing device is on an exposed surfaceof the first connector element.

At least one example embodiment discloses an electronic vapor (e-vapor)apparatus including a first section including a controller and a secondsection including a pre-vapor formulation compartment configured to holda pre-vapor formulation therein and a first connector element configuredto connect the cartridge to the first section, the first connectorelement including a processing device configured to communicate with thecontroller.

In an example embodiment, the second section further includes at leastone power connector configured to connect to a power supply of the firstsection.

In an example embodiment, the processing device is under the at leastone power connector.

In an example embodiment, the first connector element includes a firstportion and a second portion divided by an indented portion of the firstconnector, the indented portion defining an opening between the firstportion and the second portion, the at least one power connector extendsfrom the first portion to the second portion, and the processing deviceis coupled to the at least one power connector in the first portion.

In an example embodiment, the at least one power connector includes twopronged elements and the processing device is in contact with a singleprong element of the two pronged elements.

In an example embodiment, the processing device is not connected to aprinted circuit board (PCB).

In an example embodiment, the processing device is a cryptographiccoprocessor with non-volatile memory (CC-NVM).

In an example embodiment, the CC-NVM is configured to adjustcryptographic keys based on vaping parameters.

In an example embodiment, the processing device is on an exposed surfaceof the first connector element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other features and advantages of example embodiments willbecome more apparent by describing, example embodiments in detail withreference to the attached drawings. The accompanying drawings areintended to depict example embodiments and should not be interpreted tolimit the intended scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings arenot to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted.

FIG. 1 is a view of an e-vaping device according to an exampleembodiment;

FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the e-vaping device shown inFIG. 1 and including a connector according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the e-vaping device of FIG. 1, but withfirst and second sections separated from each other, according to anexample embodiment;

FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of how the first and secondsections may be connected, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3C illustrates another cross-section view of how the first andsecond sections may be connected, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3D illustrates a cross-section view of a connection shown the firstand second sections shown in FIG. 3B;

FIG. 3E illustrates a cross-section view of a connection shown the firstand second sections shown in FIG. 3C;

FIG. 4 illustrates an example embodiment of a first connector elementshown in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 5A illustrates a cross-section view of a first connector elementaccording to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom view of the first connector element of FIG.5A;

FIG. 6A illustrates an example embodiment of the first connector elementshown in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 6B illustrates an example embodiment of a gasket in the firstconnector element of FIG. 6A;

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate a pod-type e-vaping device according to anexample embodiment; and

FIG. 8 illustrates another example embodiment of an e-vaping deviceconfigured to utilize a connection arrangement shown in FIGS. 3B-C.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However,specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merelyrepresentative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Exampleembodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and shouldnot be construed as limited to only the embodiments set forth herein.

Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of variousmodifications and alternative forms, embodiments thereof are shown byway of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail.It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limitexample embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to thecontrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications,equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of exampleembodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout thedescription of the figures.

It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to asbeing “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “covering” another elementor layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or coveringthe other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may bepresent. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directlyon,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another elementor layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Likenumbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As usedherein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one ormore of the associated listed items.

It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third,etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layersand/or sections, these elements, regions, layers, and/or sections shouldnot be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguishone element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, orsection. Thus, a first element, region, layer, or section discussedbelow could be termed a second element, region, layer, or sectionwithout departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,”“upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description todescribe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) orfeature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood thatthe spatially relative terms are intended to encompass differentorientations of the device in use or operation in addition to theorientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in thefigures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” otherelements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elementsor features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation ofabove and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptorsused herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing variousembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of exampleembodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” areintended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearlyindicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms“includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used inthis specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,steps, operations, and/or elements, but do not preclude the presence oraddition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations,elements, and/or groups thereof.

Example embodiments are described herein with reference tocross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations ofidealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of exampleembodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations asa result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances,are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed aslimited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to includedeviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. Thus,the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and theirshapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shape of a region of adevice and are not intended to limit the scope of example embodiments.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. Itwill be further understood that terms, including those defined incommonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaningthat is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant artand will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal senseunless expressly so defined herein.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, an electronic vaping (e-vaping) article 60includes a replaceable cartridge (or first section) 70 and a reusablefixture (or second section) 72. The first section 70 and the secondsection 72 may be coupled together at a connection 205. The secondsection 72 may include a puff sensor 16 responsive to air drawn into thesecond section 72, a power supply 1 and a controller 18 configured tocontrol integrally the puff sensor 16. However, the position of thecontroller 18 is not limited thereto. While the controller 18 isillustrated as being in a longitudinal position, it should be understoodthat the location of controller 18 is not limited thereto.

The controller 18 may utilize encryption to authenticate the firstsection 70. As will be described, the controller 18 communicates with acryptographic coprocessor non-volatile memory (CC-NVM) package in afirst connector element of the first section to authenticate the firstsection 70.

The controller 18 may be hardware, firmware, hardware executing softwareor any combination thereof. When the controller 18 is hardware, suchexisting hardware may include one or more Central Processing Units(CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs),application-specific-integrated-circuits (ASICs), field programmablegate arrays (FPGAs) computers or the like configured as special purposemachines to perform the functions of the controller 18. As stated above,CPUs, DSPs, ASICs and FPGAs may generally be referred to as processingdevices.

In the event where the controller 18 is a processor executing software,the controller 18 is configured as a special purpose machine to executethe software, stored in a computer readable storage medium 18 a, toperform the functions of the at least one of the controller.

As disclosed herein, the term “computer readable storage medium” or“non-transitory computer readable storage medium” may represent one ormore devices for storing data, including read only memory (ROM), randomaccess memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storagemediums, optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/or othertangible machine readable mediums for storing information. The term“computer-readable medium” may include, but is not limited to, portableor fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various othermediums capable of storing, containing or carrying instruction(s) and/ordata.

The term CC-NVM may refer to a hardware module(s) including a processorfor encryption and related processing.

More specifically, the non-volatile memory is encoded during manufacturewith product and other information for authentication. For example, thenon-volatile memory may store information such as a stock keeping unit(SKU) of the pre-vapor formulation in the pre-vapor formulation supplyreservoir 22, software patches for the e-vaping device 60, andinformation communicated by the controller 18 of the e-vaping device 60such as product usage information. Product usage information may includea puff count, puffing durations, and pre-vapor formulation levelremaining in the reservoir. Moreover, the non-volatile memory may retainthe recorded information even when the first section 70 becomesdisconnected from the second section 72.

A pre-vapor formulation is a material or combination of materials thatmay be transformed into a vapor. For example, the pre-vapor formulationmay be a liquid, solid and/or gel formulation including, but not limitedto, water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts,natural or artificial flavors, and/or vapor formers such as glycerineand propylene glycol.

The first section 70 includes a pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir22 (including pre-vapor formulation and optionally a pre-vaporformulation storage medium 21), a wick 28 that wicks pre-vaporformulation from the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22, and aheater element 14 that heats the pre-vapor formulation in the wick toform a vapor in a central air channel 20. While FIG. 2 illustrates awick, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limitedto vaping devices including a wick. Upon completing the connection 205,the power supply 1 is electrically connected with the heater element 14of the first section 70 upon actuation of the puff sensor 16. Air isdrawn primarily into the first section 70 through one or more air inlets44. As will be described in further detail below, example embodimentsare not limited to e-vaping devices using a puff sensor to activate thevaping. Rather, example embodiments are also applicable to e-vapingdevices that utilize another means for activation, such as a push buttonor a capacitive button.

The e-vaping article 60 described herein can be disposable or reusable.For example, once the pre-vapor formulation of the cartridge is spent,only the first section 70 is replaced.

In some example embodiments, the e-vaping device 60 can be about 80 mmto about 110 mm long, preferably about 80 mm to about 100 mm long andabout 7 mm to about 8 mm in diameter. For example, the e-vaping device60 is about 84 mm long and has a diameter of about 7.8 mm.

The first section 70 includes an outer tube 6 (or housing) extending ina longitudinal direction and an inner tube 62 coaxially positionedwithin the outer tube or housing 6. The second section 72 can alsoinclude an outer tube 6 (or housing) extending in a longitudinaldirection.

The e-vaping device 60 can also include a central air passage 20 definedin part by inner tube 62 and an upstream seal 15. Moreover, the e-vapingdevice 60 includes a pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22. Thepre-vapor formulation supply comprises a pre-vapor formulation materialand optionally a pre-vapor formulation storage medium 21 operable tostore the pre-vapor formulation material therein. In an embodiment, thepre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 is contained in an outerannulus between the outer tube 6 and the inner tube 62. The annulus issealed at an upstream end by the seal 15 and by a pre-vapor formulationstopper 10 at a downstream end so as to prevent leakage of the pre-vaporformulation material from the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22.

The outer tube 6 and/or the inner tube 62 may be formed of any suitablematerial or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materialsinclude metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing oneor more of those materials, or thermoplastics that are suitable for foodor pharmaceutical applications, for example polypropylene,polyetheretherketone (PEEK), ceramic, and polyethylene. In oneembodiment, the material is light and non-brittle.

In an example embodiment, the heater 14 is also contained in the innertube 62 downstream of and in spaced apart relation to the portion ofcentral air passage 20 defined by the seal 15. The heater 14 can be inthe form of a wire coil, a planar body, a ceramic body, a single wire, acage of resistive wire or any other suitable form. A wick 28 is incommunication with the pre-vapor formulation material in the pre-vaporformulation supply reservoir 22 and in communication with the heater 14such that the wick 28 disposes pre-vapor formulation material inproximate relation to the heater 14. The wick 28 may be constructed of afibrous and flexible material. The wick 28 may include at least onefilament having a capacity to draw a pre-vapor formulation. For example,the wick 28 may comprise a bundle of filaments which may include glass(or ceramic) filaments.

In another example embodiment, a bundle comprising a group of windingsof glass filaments, for example, three of such windings, all whicharrangements are capable of drawing pre-vapor formulation via capillaryaction via interstitial spacing between the filaments.

The power supply 1 in the second section 72 may be operably connected tothe heater 14 (as described below) to apply voltage across the heater14. The e-vaping device 60 also includes at least one air inlet 44operable to deliver air to the central air passage 20 and/or otherportions of the inner tube 62.

The e-vaping device 60 further includes a mouth-end insert 8 having atleast two off-axis, diverging outlets 24. The mouth-end insert 8 is influid communication with the central air passage 20 via the interior ofinner tube 62 and a central passage 63, which extends through thestopper 10.

As shown in FIGS. 3A-6B, the connection 205 includes a first connectorelement 37 and a second connector element 36. As will be described withreference to FIGS. 4-6B, the first connector element 37 includes acryptographic coprocessor with non-volatile memory (CC-NVM) to transferand receive data to and from the controller 18.

The connection 205 may include one or more rubber (resilient) gasketspositioned about a battery contact 47 c of the first section 70 and abattery contact 47 b of the second section 72, which provide anelectrical connection, extending through the connection 205. The rubbergaskets may be axially compressed when the first connector element 37 isinserted into the second connector element 36 so as to provide a tactilesensation (feedback) that signifies the connection 205 has been formed.

The e-vaping device 60 includes at least one air inlet 44 formed in theouter tube 6, preferably adjacent the connection 205. In an exampleembodiment, the air inlets 44, 44′ are sized and configured such thatthe e-vaping device 60 has a resistance to draw (RTD) in the range offrom about 60 mm H₂O to about 150 mm H₂O, more preferably about 90 mmH₂O to about 110 mm H₂O, most preferably about 100 mm H₂O to about 130mm H₂O. However, in other example embodiments (e.g., FIGS. 7A-8), arange of 40-150 mm H₂O may be utilized.

In an example embodiment, the second section 72 includes an air inlet 45at an upstream end 5 of the e-vaping device 60, which is sized justsufficient to assure proper operation of the puff sensor 16, locatednearby. Drawing action upon a mouth-end insert 8 is communicated to thepuff sensor through the central air channel provided in the batterycontact 47 c of the first section 70 and the battery contact 47 b of thesecond section 72 and along space 13 between the battery 1 and thehousing of the second section 72.

FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of how the first and secondsections may be connected, according to an example embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the first connector element 37 includes a connectorpiece 37 a. The connector piece 37 a has an interior surface thatdefines an air channel 305 through the connector piece 37 a.Furthermore, the connector piece 37 a includes slots 310 a and 310 b toreceive battery contacts 315 a and 315 b, respectively.

Furthermore, the first connector element 37 includes a CC-NVM package320. As will be described with reference to the example first connectorelements below, the position of the CC-NVM package 320 is not limited tothe position shown in FIG. 3B. The CC-NVM package 320 includes pins 322and 324 to connect to the outer housing 6 and the battery contact 315 b,respectively. Because the outer housing 6 is metal, the connection tothe outer housing 6 provides a data communication line between theCC-NVM package 320 and the controller in the e-vaping device.

A pre-vapor formulation-tight seal(s) may be implemented between thepre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 and the first connectorelement 37 to prevent pre-vapor formulation from reaching the CC-NVMpackage 320 while allowing the battery contacts 315 a and 315 b toextend into the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 and connectwith the heater 14.

The second connector element 36 is configured to mate with the firstconnector element 37. For example, the second connector element 36 maybe designed such that the second connector element 36 provides apre-vapor formulation-tight seal with one of the first connectorelements shown in FIGS. 4-6A.

The second connector element 36 includes a connector piece 36 a. Theconnector piece 36 a has an interior surface that defines an air channel350 through the connector piece 36 a. Furthermore, the connector piece36 a includes slots 360 a and 360 b to receive battery contacts 365 aand 365 b, respectively.

The connection allows air to pass through the channels 305 and 350 andthe battery contacts 315 a and 315 b to connect with the batterycontacts 365 a and 365 b, respectively. The battery contacts 315 a and315 b provided power to a heating element (e.g., the heater 14) and thebattery contacts 365 a and 365 b are connected to a power supply (e.g.,the power supply 1).

Since air flows through the channels 305 and 350, the connection shownin FIG. 3B may be used in e-vaping devices having a puff sensor. Forexample, FIG. 3D illustrates the connector elements 37 and 36 beingconnected at the connection 205.

FIG. 3C illustrates a cross-sectional view of how the first and secondsections may be connected, according to an example embodiment.

In FIG. 3C, a second connector element 36′ is the same as the secondconnector element 36 except a connector piece 36 a′ does not include anair channel. Thus, the example embodiment shown in FIG. 3C may beutilized in e-vaping devices that do not use a puff sensor, such aspod-type e-vaping devices (e.g., shown in FIGS. 7A-8B). FIG. 3eillustrates the connector elements 37 and 36′ being connected at aconnection 205′.

FIGS. 4-6B illustrate example embodiments of the first connector elementshown in FIG. 3A. It should be understood that the dimensions of thefirst connector element according to example embodiments may be flexibleand can be scaled to fit different e-vaping devices. Furthermore, theconnector pieces do not have to have a circular cross section.

As shown in FIG. 4, a first connector element 400 includes batterycontacts (also referred to as power connectors) 410 and a cryptographiccoprocessor with non-volatile memory (CC-NVM) package 430 in a connectorpiece 420. The CC-NVM package 430 may also be referred to as aprocessing device. Thus, while example embodiments are described withreference to a CC-NVM, it should be understood that other processingdevices may be used for authentication and conveying information to thecontroller 18.

The connector piece 420 includes two slots 445 a and 445 b fitted toreceive the CC-NVM package 430 and the battery contacts 410. For thesake of illustration purposes, only one of the battery contacts isillustrated.

The connector piece 420 includes a top portion 422 (portion nearest thesection 72 when connected to the section 72) and a bottom portion 424.The top portion 422 is a cylindrically shaped and includes two opposingslots 445 a and 445 b fitted to receive the CC-NVM package 430 and thebattery contacts 410.

As shown, the CC-NVM package 430 does not utilize a printed circuitboard (PCB). The CC-NVM package 430 may be friction fit into the slot445 a. As a result, a size and cost of the section 70 is reduced.

Moreover, the CC-NVM package 430 may include at least one pin 470 andutilizes the pin 470 to contact with the outer housing 6 shell. TheCC-NVM package 430 utilizes the outer housing 6 as a data communicationline to communicate with the controller 18. Another pin connects theCC-NVM package 430 to the battery contact 410.

The slot 445 a is defined by elevated portions 447 a, 447 b and a backend 449 a of a groove 450 a. Similarly, the slot 445 b is defined byelevated portions 447 c, 447 d and a back end 449 b of a groove 450 b.The grooves 450 a and 450 b oppose each other.

The CC-NVM package 430 may work with an encryption system in the e-vapordevice 60 to authenticate the first section 70. More specifically, thenon-volatile memory of the CC-NVM package 430 is encoded duringmanufacture with product and other information for authentication. Forexample, the non-volatile memory of the CC-NVM package 430 may storeinformation regarding the chemical composition of the pre-vaporformulation in the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22, softwarepatches for the e-vaping device 60, a puff count, puffing duration,pre-vapor formulation level and puff parameters. Moreover, thenon-volatile memory of the CC-NVM package 430 may record informationcommunicated by the controller 18 of the e-vaping device 60.

In an example embodiment, the CC-NVM package 430 may be a programmableread-only memory (PROM), for example. The CC-NVM may transfer updates,such as power control, to the controller 18 and information such as ablacklist (e.g., a list of prohibited items such as counterfeit pods andcartridges), marketing and promotional materials to the controller 18.

The first connector element 400 may be referred to as a contact topmount connector because the battery contacts as well as the CC-NVMpackage 430 are exposed at the top portion 422 of the connector piece420.

The bottom portion 424 is cylindrically shaped and has a length greaterthan the top portion 422 and a diameter less than the top portion 422.

Furthermore, the connector piece 420 defines a channel 460 through theconnector piece 420 to allow air to pass through the connector piece420. While the channel 460 is illustrated as a central air channel,example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the connectorpiece 420 may have side air channel. Moreover, the CC-NVM package 430may be made to fit around the connector piece 420.

The connector piece 420 may be made of hard plastic that can be molded.The materials of the connector piece 420 may have some capacity to beflexible to facilitate friction fitting of parts. Also, the materialsshould not chemically react in a deleterious way with the flavoringredients or other ingredients of pre-vapor formulations.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an example embodiment of the first connectorelement shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 5A illustrates a cross-section view of a first connector element500. FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom view of the first connector element500.

The first connector element 500 includes a connector piece 520, a CC-NVMpackage 530, a gasket 540 and battery contacts 510 protruding throughthe gasket 540. The gasket 540 may be made of hard plastic that can bemolded. The CC-NVM package 530 may be the same as the CC-NVM package 430or at least configured to perform the same functions as the CC-NVMpackage 430.

The connector piece 520 includes a first portion 521, an intermediateportion 522 and a second portion 523. The connector piece 520 may bemade of metal and may be part of the outer housing 6 or connected to theouter housing 6. Thus, the connector piece 520 may provide a dataconnection for the CC-NVM package 530 to the controller in the e-vapingdevice because a pin of the CC-NVM package 530 is connected to theconnector piece 520.

An inside surface area of the first portion 521 defines a channel 545and an inside surface area of the second portion 523 defines a channel547. The intermediate portion 522 defines an opening 550 between thefirst portion 521 and the second portion 523 thereby connecting thechannels 545 and 547. A diameter of the channel 545 is larger than adiameter of the channel 547. A diameter of the opening is less than thediameters of the channels 545 and 547.

The gasket 540 extends from the channel 547 through the opening 550 andinto the channel 545. The gasket 540 includes two slots 555 a and 555 bthat extend through the gasket and hold the battery contacts 510. Thegasket 540 further includes indented notches 557 a, 557 b at ends of theslots 555 a and 555, respectively. The notches 557 a, 557 b are fittedto receive ends of the battery contacts 510.

The gasket 540 further includes an internal surface 560 that defines achannel 562 through the gasket to allow air to flow between the channels545 and 547.

A seal 564 provides a substantially pre-vapor formulation-tight sealwith an interior surface 566 of the connector piece 520. The seal 564may be made of a plastic.

As shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the CC-NVM package 530 is connected to one ofthe battery contacts 510 and may be connected to the connector piece520. The gasket 540 includes a notch 556 a on one side to allow theCC-NVM package 530 to contact one of the battery contacts. Because thegasket 540 includes the notch 556 a, a portion of the gasket 540 extendsinto the channel 547 whereas the portion of the gasket 540 with thenotch 556 a ends at where the first portion 521 and intermediate portion522 meet.

FIG. 6A illustrates an example embodiment of the first connector elementshown in FIG. 3A. FIG. 6B illustrates an example embodiment of a gasketin the first connector element of FIG. 6A.

As shown in FIG. 6A, a first connector element 600 includes theconnector piece 520, a CC-NVM package 630, a first gasket 640, a secondgasket 650 and battery contacts 610 protruding through the first gasket640. The CC-NVM package 630 may be the same as the CC-NVM package 530 orat least configured to perform the same functions as the CC-NVM package530.

The connector element 600 may be referred to as an in-gasket flatcontact connector because the CC-NVM package 630 is in a flat positionin the second gasket 650 and contacts one of the battery contacts 610such that the connection is substantially normal. The CC-NVM package 630is connected to the battery contact 610 to receive power.

The connector piece 520 may provide a data connection for the CC-NVMpackage 630 to the controller in the e-vaping device because a pin 630 aof the CC-NVM package 630 is connected to the connector piece 520. A pin630 b may connect to the battery contact 610 to receive power.

The first gasket 640 is the same as the gasket 540 except an internalsurface 660 is longer in a longitudinal direction that the internalsurface 560 and the first gasket 640 does not include a notch to receivethe CC-NVM package 630. The internal surface 660 defines a channel 661through the first gasket 640 to allow air to flow between the channel547 and a channel 645 defined by an inner surface 655 of the secondgasket 650. The first gasket 640 further includes an extended portion672 that extends into the channel 645.

As shown in FIG. 6B, second gasket 650 includes a top portion 662, anintermediate portion 664 and a bottom portion 666. The top portion 662is a cylindrically shaped and includes two opposing grooves 670 a and670 b fitted to receive the CC-NVM package 630.

The second gasket 650 may be made of hard plastic that can be molded.The materials of the second gasket 650 may have some capacity to beflexible to facilitate friction fitting of parts. Also, the materialsshould be relatively inert and not chemically react in a deleterious waywith the flavor ingredients or other ingredients of pre-vaporformulations.

A diameter of an outer surface 664 a of the intermediate portion 664 islarger than a diameter of an outer surface 662 a of the top portion 662.The outer surface 664 a provides a substantially pre-vaporformulation-tight seal with an interior surface 670 of the connectorpiece 520.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the CC-NVM package 630 does not utilize a printedcircuit board (PCB). As a result, a size and cost of the section 70 isreduced.

Moreover, as described and shown with reference to FIGS. 4-6B, a CC-NVMpackage may be housed in different locations of a first connectorelement. In FIG. 4, the CC-NVM package 430 is embedded at one side of agasket/connector, in FIGS. 5A-5B, the CC-NVM package 530 is embedded aspart of a ring that fits around a gasket/connector; and in FIG. 6A, theCC-NVM package 630 is embedded in a connector separated from anotherconnector.

In an embodiment, a heater 14 is also contained in the inner tube 62downstream of and in spaced apart relation to the portion of central airpassage 20 defined by the seal 15. The heater 14 can be in the form of awire coil, a planar body, a ceramic body, a single wire, a cage ofresistive wire or any other suitable form. A wick 28 is in communicationwith the pre-vapor formulation material in the pre-vapor formulationsupply reservoir 22 and in communication with the heater 14 such thatthe wick 28 disposes pre-vapor formulation material in proximaterelation to the heater 14. The wick 28 may be constructed of a fibrousand flexible material. The wick 28 may include at least one filamenthaving a capacity to draw a pre-vapor formulation. For example, the wick28 may comprise a bundle of filaments which may include glass (orceramic) filaments. In another embodiment, a bundle comprising a groupof windings of glass filaments, for example, three of such windings, allwhich arrangements are capable of drawing pre-vapor formulation viacapillary action via interstitial spacing between the filaments.

A power supply 1 in the second section 72 may be operably connected tothe heater 14 (as described below) to apply voltage across the heater14. The e-vaping device 60 also includes at least one air inlet 44operable to deliver air to the central air passage 20 and/or otherportions of the inner tube 62.

The e-vaping device 60 further includes a mouth-end insert 8 having atleast two off-axis, diverging outlets 24. The mouth-end insert 8 is influid communication with the central air passage 20 via the interior ofinner tube 62 and a central passage 63, which extends through thestopper 10.

The wick 28, pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 and mouth-endinsert 8 are contained in the cartridge 70 and the power supply 1 iscontained in the second section 72. In one embodiment, the first section(the cartridge) 70 is disposable and the second section (the fixture) 72is reusable.

The sections 70, 72 can be attached by the first and second connectorelements 37 and 36, as described above, whereby the downstream section70 can be replaced when the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 isused up. Having a separate first section 70 and second section 72provides a number of advantages. First, if the first section 70 containsthe at least one heater 14, the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir22 and the wick 28, all elements which are potentially in contact withthe pre-vapor formulation are disposed of when the first section 70 isreplaced. Thus, there will be no cross-contamination between differentmouth-end inserts 8, for example, when using different pre-vaporformulation materials. Also, if the first section 70 is replaced atsuitable intervals, there is little chance of the heater becomingclogged with pre-vapor formulation. Optionally, the first section 70 andthe second section 72 are arranged to releaseably lock together whenengaged.

In one embodiment, the outer tube 6 can include a clear window formed ofa transparent material so as to allow an adult vaper to see the amountof pre-vapor formulation material remaining in the pre-vapor formulationsupply reservoir 22. The clear window can extend at least a portion ofthe length of the first section 70 and can extend fully or partiallyabout the circumference of the first section 70. In another embodiment,the outer tube 6 can be at least partially formed of a transparentmaterial so as to allow an adult vaper to see the amount of pre-vaporformulation material remaining in the pre-vapor formulation supplyreservoir 22.

In an embodiment, the at least one air inlet 44 includes one or two airinlets 44, 44′. Alternatively, there may be three, four, five or moreair inlets. If there is more than one air inlet 44, 44′, the air inlets44, 44′ are located at different locations along the e-vaping device 60.For example, as shown in FIG. 2, an air inlet 44 a can be positioned atthe upstream end of the e-vaping device adjacent a puff sensor 16 suchthat the puff sensor 16 supplies power to the heater 14 upon sensing anegative pressure. Air inlet 44 a should communicate with the mouth-endinsert 8 so that a draw upon the mouth-end insert activates the puffsensor 16. The air from the air inlet 44 a can then flow along thebattery and to the central air passage 20 in the seal 15 and/or to otherportions of the inner tube 62 and/or outer tube 6. At least oneadditional air inlet 44, 44′ can be located adjacent and upstream of theseal 15 or at any other desirable location. Altering the size and numberof air inlets 44, 44′ can also aid in establishing the resistance todraw of the e-vaping device 60.

In an embodiment, the heater 14 is arranged to communicate with the wick28 and to heat the pre-vapor formulation material contained in the wick28 to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the pre-vapor formulationmaterial and form a vapor.

The heater 14 may be a wire coil surrounding wick 28, a mesh, a surfaceor made out of a ceramic material for example. Examples of suitableelectrically resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalumand metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloysinclude stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-,aluminium-titanium-zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-,tantalum-, tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese- and iron-containingalloys, and super-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel.For example, the heater may be formed of nickel aluminides, a materialwith a layer of alumina on the surface, iron aluminides and othercomposite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionallybe embedded in, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material orvice-versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and theexternal physicochemical properties required. In one embodiment, theheater 14 comprises at least one material selected from the groupconsisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromiumalloys, superalloys and combinations thereof. In an embodiment, theheater 14 is formed of nickel-chromium alloys or iron-chromium alloys.In one embodiment, the heater 14 can be a ceramic heater having anelectrically resistive layer on an outside surface thereof.

In another embodiment, the heater 14 may be constructed of aniron-aluminide (e.g., FeAl or Fe.sub.3Al), such as those described incommonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,595,706 to Sikka et al. filed Dec. 29,1994, or nickel aluminides (e.g., Ni.sub.3Al). Use of iron-aluminides isparticularly advantageous in that they exhibit high resistivity. FeAlexhibits a resistivity of approximately 180 micro-ohms, whereasstainless steel exhibits approximately 50 to 91 micro-ohms. The higherresistivity lowers current draw or load on the power supply (battery) 1.

In one embodiment, the heater 14 comprises a wire coil which at leastpartially surrounds the wick 28. In that embodiment, the wire may be ametal wire and/or the heater coil that extends partially along thelength of the wick 28. The heater coil may extend fully or partiallyaround the circumference of the wick 28. In another embodiment, theheater coil is not in contact with the wick 28.

The heater 14 heats pre-vapor formulation in the wick 28 by thermalconduction. Alternatively, heat from the heater 14 may be conducted tothe pre-vapor formulation by means of a heat conductive element or theheater 14 may transfer heat to the incoming ambient air that is drawnthrough the e-vaping device 60 during use, which in turn heats thepre-vapor formulation by convection.

In one embodiment, the wick comprises a ceramic material or ceramicfibers. As noted above, the wick 28 is at least partially surrounded bythe heater 14. Moreover, in an embodiment, the wick 28 extends throughopposed openings in the inner tube 62 such that end portions of the wick28 are in contact with the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22.

The wick 28 may comprise a plurality or bundle of filaments. In oneembodiment, the filaments may be generally aligned in a directiontransverse to the longitudinal direction of the e-vaping device, but theexample embodiments are not limited to this orientation. In oneembodiment, the structure of the wick 28 is formed of ceramic filamentscapable of drawing pre-vapor formulation via capillary action viainterstitial spacing between the filaments to the heater 14. The wick 28can include filaments having a cross-section which is generallycross-shaped, clover-shaped, Y-shaped or in any other suitable shape.

The wick 28 includes any suitable material or combination of materials.Examples of suitable materials are glass filaments and ceramic orgraphite based materials. Moreover, the wick 28 may have any suitablecapillarity accommodate vapor generating pre-vapor formulations havingdifferent physical properties such as density, viscosity, surfacetension and vapor pressure. The capillary properties of the wick 28,combined with the properties of the solution, ensure that the wick 28 isalways wet in the area of the heater 14 to avoid overheating of theheater 14.

Instead of using a wick, the heater can be a porous material ofsufficient capillarity and which incorporates a resistance heater formedof a material having a high electrical resistance capable of generatingheat quickly.

In one embodiment, the wick 28 and the pre-vapor formulation storagemedium 21 of the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 areconstructed from an alumina ceramic. In another embodiment, the wick 28includes glass fibers and the pre-vapor formulation storage medium 21includes a cellulosic material or polyethylene terephthalate.

In an embodiment, the power supply 1 includes a battery arranged in thee-vaping device 60 such that such that an anode 47 a is downstream of acathode. A battery contact 47 b (e.g., battery contacts 410) contactsthe downstream end of the power supply 1.

More specifically, a batter contact 47 b (e.g., power connector) of thesecond section 72 preferably contacts the battery contact 47 a. Theouter housing 6 is formed of metal so as to complete the electricalcircuit.

Electrical connection between the battery contact 47 a of the powersupply 1 and the heater 14 in the first section 70 is establishedthrough a battery contact 47 b in the second section 72 of the e-vapingdevice 60 and a battery contact 47 c of the cartridge 70 and anelectrical lead 47 d connecting a rim portion of the battery contact 47c with one end of the heater 14. The outer housing 6 can be formed of ametal so as to complete the electrical connection.

The battery contacts may be highly conductive and temperature resistantwhile a coiled section of the heater 14 is highly resistive so that heatgeneration occurs primarily along the coils of the heater 14.

The power supply 1 may be a Lithium-ion battery or one of its variants,for example a Lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the powersupply 1 may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmiumbattery, a Lithium-manganese battery, a Lithium-cobalt battery or a fuelcell. In that case, the e-vaping device 60 is usable until the energy inthe power supply is depleted. Alternatively, the power supply 1 may berechargeable and include circuitry allowing the battery to be chargeableby an external charging device. In that case, the circuitry, whencharged, provides power for a desired (or alternatively apre-determined) puff count, after which the circuitry must bere-connected to an external charging device. The controller 18 controlsthe control circuitry.

The controller 18 is configured to communicate with the CC-NVM package430, 530 or 630 to authenticate the section 70.

The puff sensor 16 is operable to sense an air pressure drop andinitiate application of voltage from the power supply 1 to the heater14. The CC-NVM packages 430, 530 or 630 may use puff parameters (e.g.,puff duration) to strengthen cryptographic keys by leveraging the randomnature of the parameters. For example, encryption algorithms rely on theuse of random numbers. The security of these algorithm depends on howtruly random these numbers are. These numbers are usually pre-generatedand coded into the processor or memory devices. Example embodimentsincrease the randomness of the numbers used for the encryption by usingthe puffing parameters e.g. puff durations, intervals between puffs, orcombinations of them, to generate numbers that are more random and morevarying from individual to individual than pre-generated random numbers.

The control circuitry can also include a heater activation light 48operable to glow when the heater 14 is activated. In one embodiment, theheater activation light 48 comprises an LED and is at an upstream end ofthe e-vaping device 60 so that the heater activation light 48 takes onthe appearance of a burning coal during a puff. Moreover, the heateractivation light 48 can be arranged to be visible to the adult vaper. Inaddition, the heater activation light 48 can be utilized for e-vapingsystem diagnostics. The light 48 can also be configured such that theadult vaper can activate and/or deactivate the light 48 for privacy,such that the light 48 would not activate during vaping if desired.

The at least one air inlet 44 a is located adjacent the puff sensor 16,such that the puff sensor 16 senses air flow indicative of an adultvaper taking a puff and activates the power supply 1 and the heateractivation light 48 to indicate that the heater 14 is working.

A control circuit is integrated with the puff sensor 16 and suppliespower to the heater 14 responsive to the puff sensor 16, for example,with a maximum, time-period limiter.

Alternatively, the control circuitry may include a manually operableswitch for an adult vaper to initiate the vaping. The time-period of theelectric current supply to the heater may be pre-set depending on theamount of pre-vapor formulation desired to be vaporized. The controlcircuitry may be programmable for this purpose. Alternatively, thecircuitry may supply power to the heater as long as the puff sensordetects a pressure drop.

When activated, the heater 14 heats a portion of the wick 28 surroundedby the heater for less than about 10 seconds, more preferably less thanabout 7 seconds. Thus, the power cycle (or maximum puff length) canrange in period from about 2 seconds to about 10 seconds (e.g., about 3seconds to about 9 seconds, about 4 seconds to about 8 seconds or about5 seconds to about 7 seconds).

In an embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 includesa pre-vapor formulation storage medium 21 containing a solution. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 2, the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir22 is contained in an outer annulus between inner tube 62 and outer tube6 and between stopper 10 and the seal 15. Thus, the pre-vaporformulation supply reservoir 22 at least partially surrounds the centralair passage 20 and the heater 14 and the wick 14 extend between portionsof the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22. The pre-vaporformulation storage material may be a fibrous material comprisingcotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon and combinations thereof. Thefibers may have a diameter ranging in size from about 6 microns to about15 microns (e.g., about 8 microns to about 12 microns or about 9 micronsto about 11 microns). The pre-vapor formulation storage medium 21 may bea sintered, porous or foamed material. Also, the fibers may be sized tobe irrespirable and can have a cross-section which has a y shape, crossshape, clover shape or any other suitable shape. In the alternative, thereservoir 22 may comprise a filled tank lacking a pre-vapor formulationstorage medium 21.

Also, the pre-vapor formulation material has a boiling point suitablefor use in the e-vaping device 60. If the boiling point is too high, theheater 14 will not be able to vaporize pre-vapor formulation in the wick28. However, if the boiling point is too low, the pre-vapor formulationmay vaporize without the heater 14 being activated.

The pre-vapor formulation material may include a tobacco-containingmaterial including volatile tobacco flavor compounds which are releasedfrom the pre-vapor formulation upon heating. The pre-vapor formulationmay also be a tobacco flavor containing material or anicotine-containing material. Alternatively, or in addition, thepre-vapor formulation may include a non-tobacco material.

In use, pre-vapor formulation material is transferred from the pre-vaporformulation supply reservoir 22 and/or pre-vapor formulation storagemedium 21 in proximity of the heater 14 by capillary action in the wick28. In one embodiment, the wick 28 has a first end portion 29 and asecond opposite end portion 31 as shown in FIG. 4. The first end portion29 and the second end portion 31 extend into opposite sides of thepre-vapor formulation storage medium 21 for contact with pre-vaporformulation material contained therein. The heater 14 at least partiallysurrounds a central portion of the wick 28 such that when the heater 14is activated, the pre-vapor formulation in the central portion of thewick 28 is vaporized by the heater 14 to vaporize the pre-vaporformulation material and form a vapor.

One advantage of an embodiment is that the pre-vapor formulationmaterial in the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 is protectedfrom oxygen (because oxygen cannot generally enter the pre-vaporformulation storage portion via the wick) so that the risk ofdegradation of the pre-vapor formulation material is significantlyreduced. Moreover, in some embodiments in which the outer tube 6 is notclear, the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 is protected fromlight so that the risk of degradation of the pre-vapor formulationmaterial is significantly reduced. Thus, a high level of shelf-life andcleanliness can be maintained.

Referring to FIG. 2, the mouth-end insert 8, includes at least twodiverging outlets 24 (e.g., 3, 4, 5 or more). The outlets 24 of themouth-end insert 8 are located at ends of off-axis passages and areangled outwardly in relation to the longitudinal direction of thee-vaping device 60 (i.e., divergently). As used herein, the term“off-axis” denotes at an angle to the longitudinal direction of thee-vaping device. Also, the mouth-end insert (or flow guide) 8 mayinclude outlets uniformly distributed around the mouth-end insert 8 soas to substantially uniformly distribute vapor during use. Thus, as thevapor passes into an adult vaper's mouth, the vapor enters the mouth andmoves in different directions so as to provide a full mouth feel ascompared to e-vaping devices having an on-axis single orifice whichdirects the vapor to a single location.

In addition, the outlets 24 and off-axis passages are arranged such thatdroplets of pre-vapor formulation material carried in the vapor impactinterior surfaces 81 at the mouth-end insert 8 and/or interior surfacesof the off-axis passages such that the droplets are removed or brokenapart. In an embodiment, the outlets of the mouth-end insert are locatedat the ends of the off-axis passages and are angled at 5 to 60 degreeswith respect to the central axis of the outer tube 6 so as to morecompletely distribute vapor throughout a mouth of an adult vaper duringuse and to remove droplets.

Preferably, each outlet has a diameter of about 0.015 inch to about0.090 inch (e.g., about 0.020 inch to about 0.040 inch or about 0.028inch to about 0.038 inch). The size of the outlets 24 and off-axispassages 80 along with the number of outlets can be selected to adjustthe resistance to draw (RTD) of the e-vaping device 60, if desired.

As shown in FIG. 2, an interior surface 81 of the mouth-end insert 8 cancomprise a generally domed surface. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2B,the interior surface 81′ of the mouth-end insert 8 can be generallycylindrical or frustoconical, with a planar end surface. The interiorsurface is substantially uniform over the surface thereof or symmetricalabout the longitudinal axis of the mouth-end insert 8. However, in otherembodiments, the interior surface can be irregular and/or have othershapes.

The mouth-end insert 8 is integrally affixed within the tube 6 of thecartridge. Moreover, the mouth-end insert 8 may be formed of a polymerselected from the group consisting of low density polyethylene, highdensity polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylchloride,polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and combinations thereof. The mouth-endinsert 8 may also be colored if desired.

In an embodiment, the e-vaping device 60 also includes variousembodiments of an air flow diverter or air flow diverter means. The airflow diverter is operable to manage air flow at or about around theheater so as to abate a tendency of drawn air to cool the heater, whichcould otherwise lead to diminished vapor output.

In one embodiment, the e-vaping device 60 can also include a filtersegment upstream of the heater 14 and operable to restrict flow of airthrough the e-vaping device 60. The addition of a filter segment can aidin adjusting the resistance to draw.

In one embodiment, a wick 28 may be in communication with the interiorof the pre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22 and in communicationwith a heater 14 such that the wick 28 draws pre-vapor formulation viacapillary action from the supply reservoir 22 into proximity of theheater 14. As described previously, the wick 28 is a bundle of flexiblefilaments whose end portions are disposed within the confines of thesupply reservoir 22. The contents of the pre-vapor formulation supplyreservoir 22 may be a pre-vapor formulation, as previously described,together with the end portions of the wick 28. The end portions of thewick 28 occupy substantial portions of the tank interior such thatorientation of the e-vaping device 60 does not impact the ability of thewick 28 to draw pre-vapor formulation. Optionally, the pre-vaporformulation supply reservoir 22 may include filaments or gauze or afibrous web to maintain distribution of pre-vapor formulation within thepre-vapor formulation supply reservoir 22.

In operation, with the e-vaping device 60 in an assembled configuration,an adult vaper may apply a negative pressure on the mouth-end insert 8.This negative pressure may cause an internal pressure drop insidee-vaping device 60 that may cause an inlet air flow to enter thee-vaping device 60 via the air inlets 44/44′. The internal pressure dropmay also cause an internal pressure drop within the reusable section 72as air is drawn through the air inlet 44 a. The internal pressure dropformed in section 72 may be sensed by the puff sensor 16. The puffsensor 16 may then operate to close an electrical circuit that includesthe power supply 1. In turn, electrical current is carried to the heater14 in order to energize the heater 14. The energized heater 14 in turnheats and vaporizes pre-vapor formulation material that is drawn towardthe heater 14 via the wicks 28.

As a negative pressure is being applied, the vaporized pre-vaporformulation material becomes entrained in the air flow which then passesthrough tube 20 a of tank 70, through the mouth-end insert 8.

While the first connector element 37 has been described with referenceto the e-vaping device 60, shown in FIG. 1, it should be understood thata connector element with a CC-NVM may be used in another type ofe-vaping device.

For example, FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate a pod-type e-vaping device accordingto an example embodiment, where a pod assembly 702 may connect to a body704. The pod assembly 702 includes battery contacts 716 and a dataconnection 717 connected to a CC-NVM within the pod assembly 702. TheCC-NVM within the pod assembly 702 is configured to communicate with acontroller in the body 704.

Referring to FIG. 7A, each of the pod assemblies 402 includes a pod trim710 arranged between a first cap 714 a and a second cap 714 b. The vaporchannel 708 is aligned with the channel outlet 712 and arranged abovethe vaporizer 706. The pod assembly 702 is sealed to hold a pre-vaporformulation 418 therein and to preclude tampering therewith. As shown inthe example embodiment of FIG. 7A, the pre-vapor formulation 418 fillsto near a top of the pod assembly 702. The pre-vapor formulationcompartment of the pod assembly 402 is configured to hold the pre-vaporformulation 418, and the device compartment includes the vaporizer 706.For example, the CC-NVM may be connected to a portion of the podassembly 702 separate from the vaporizer 706 and pre-vapor formulation418. In one example embodiment, the CC-NVM is attached to an internalsurface of the trim 410. In another example embodiment, the CC-NVM isconnected to a printed circuit board (PCB) in the pod assembly that isseparate from the vaporizer 706 and pre-vapor formulation 718. Thus, thepod assembly 402 may be considered to have at least three sections, onewith the pre-vapor, one where the vaporizer 706 resides and onecontaining the connector bits and the CC-NVM.

In further detail, the pod assembly 702 for an e-vapor apparatus mayinclude a pre-vapor formulation compartment configured to hold anpre-vapor formulation 718 therein. A device compartment is in fluidiccommunication with the pre-vapor formulation compartment. The devicecompartment includes a vaporizer 706. A vapor channel 708 extends fromthe device compartment and traverses the pre-vapor formulationcompartment.

The pod assembly 702 is configured for insertion into a dispensing body.As a result, the dimensions of the pod assembly 702 may correspond tothe dimensions of the through-hole of the dispensing body. The vaporchannel 708 may be between a mouthpiece and the device compartment whenthe pod assembly 702 is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensingbody.

A connection 205″ (e.g., male/female member arrangement, e.g.,connection 205″ shown in FIG. 7B) may be provided on at least one of theside wall of the through-hole and a side surface of the pod assembly702. The connection 205″ may be the connection shown in FIG. 3C. Thus,the CC-NVM 320 may be the CC-NVM described with reference to FIG. 7A.

The connection 205″ may be configured to engage and hold the podassembly 702 upon insertion into the through-hole of the dispensingbody. In addition, the channel outlet 712 may be utilized to secure thepod assembly 702 within the through-hole of the dispensing body. Forinstance, the dispensing body may be provided with a retractable vaporconnector that is configured to insert into the channel outlet 712 so asto secure the pod assembly 702 while also supplementing the vapor pathfrom the channel outlet 712 to a vapor passage.

The pre-vapor formulation compartment and the CC-NVM package may be atopposite ends of the pod assembly 702. The device compartment mayinclude a memory device. The non-volatile memory of the CC-NVM may becoded with an electronic identity to permit at least one of anauthentication of the pod assembly 702 and a pairing of operatingparameters specific to a type of the pod assembly 702 when the podassembly 702 is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body(e.g., smart calibration). The electronic identity may help preventcounterfeiting. The operating parameters may help optimize a vapingexperience without placing a burden on the adult vaper to determinepreferred settings. In an example embodiment, the level of the pre-vaporformulation in the pod assembly 702 may be tracked. Additionally, theactivation of the pod assembly 702 may be restricted once its intendedusage life has been exceeded. Thus, the pod assembly 702 (and 302) maybe regarded as a smart pod.

A side surface of the pod assembly 702 includes at least one electricalcontact 716 (e.g., two contacts) for power and at least one electricalcontact 717 (data connection) for data. The CC-NVM package is connectedto the electrical contact 717 and one of the contacts 716. Thedispensing body may be configured to perform at least one of supplypower to and communicate with the pod assembly 702 via the at least oneelectrical contact 716. The at least one electrical contact 716 may beprovided at an end of the pod assembly 702 corresponding to the devicecompartment. Because of its smart capability, the pod assembly 702 maycommunicate with dispensing body and/or another electronic device (e.g.,smart phone). As a result, usage patterns and other information (e.g.,puff size, flavor intensity, throat feel, puff count) may be generated,stored, transferred, and/or displayed.

As shown in FIG. 7B, an e-vapor apparatus 700 includes the pod assembly702 (e.g., smart pod) that is inserted within a dispensing body 704.

The smart capability, connecting features, and other related aspects ofthe pod assembly, dispensing body, and overall e-vapor apparatus shownin FIGS. 7A-7B are additionally discussed in U.S. application Ser. No.14/998,020 (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000174-US (ALCS2829)) filed on Apr. 22,2015, entitled POD ASSEMBLY, DISPENSING BODY, AND E-VAPOR APPARATUSINCLUDING THE SAME, and U.S. application Ser. No. 14/998,040 (Atty. Dkt.No. 24000-000202-US (ALCS2855)) filed on Apr. 22, 2015, entitled E-VAPORDEVICES INCLUDING PRE-SEALED CARTRIDGES, the entire contents of each ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 8 illustrates another example embodiment of an e-vaping deviceconfigured to utilize a connection arrangement shown in FIGS. 3B-C.

As shown in FIG. 8, an e-vaping device 800 includes a main body 805. Themain body includes a mouthpiece 810, a control section 815 and areceiving section 820.

The receiving section 820 is configured to receive a replaceablecartridge 825. The replaceable cartridge includes a channel 830, apre-vapor formulation container 835, a heater 840 and a first connectorelement 845. The first connector element 845 includes a CC-NVM package850. The heater 840 heats pre-vapor formulation in the pre-vaporformulation container 835 into a vapor. The vapor is then provided tothe mouthpiece 810 through the channel 830.

The control section 815 includes a second connector element 852 toconnect with the first connector element 845, a controller 855 and apower supply 860. The controller 855 is configured to communicate withthe CC-NVM package 850 and use the CC-NVM package 850 to authenticatethe cartridge 825, as previously described with respect to FIGS. 3A-7B.If the cartridge 825 is authenticated, the controller 855 permits thepower supply 860 to provide power to the heater 840.

The controller 855 may be hardware, firmware, hardware executingsoftware or any combination thereof. When the controller 18 is hardware,such existing hardware may include one or more Central Processing Units(CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs),application-specific-integrated-circuits (ASICs), field programmablegate arrays (FPGAs) computers or the like configured as special purposemachines to perform the functions of the controller 855.

In the event where the controller 855 is a processor executing software,the controller 855 is configured as a special purpose machine to executethe software, stored in a computer readable storage medium 875, toperform the functions of the controller 855.

An adult vaper may activate the e-vaping device 800 by pressing a button865. The button 865 may be a toggle button or a capacitive touch sensor,for example. Upon pressing the button 865, the power supply 860 providespower to the heater 840.

If the controller 855 is unable to authenticate the cartridge 825, thecontroller 855 may disable the button 865 and/or the power supply 860.

Moreover, the controller 855 may disable the button 865 and/or the powersupply 860 if the amount of pre-vapor formulation in the pre-vaporformulation container 835 is below a threshold level, if the puff countwith respect to the cartridge exceeds a threshold number or based on anyother parameters associated with the cartridge 825.

While FIGS. 3B-3E illustrate a male/female connection, exampleembodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the connection mayinclude a mating member that is formed on a side wall of the firstconnector element 37 and/or the second connector element 36 and acorresponding recess that is formed on the side surface of the podassembly. Conversely, the mating member may be formed on the sidesurface of the pod assembly, while the corresponding recess may beformed on the side wall of the first connector element 37 and/or thesecond connector element 36. In a non-limiting embodiment, the matingmember may be a rounded structure to facilitate theengagement/disengagement of the connection 205″, while the recess may bea concave indentation that corresponds to the curvature of the roundedstructure.

The mating member may also be spring-loaded so as to retract (via springcompression) when a pod (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 7A-7B) is beinginserted into a through-hole and protract (via spring decompression)when mating member becomes aligned with the corresponding recess. Theengagement of the mating member with the corresponding recess may resultin an audible click, which notifies the adult vaper that the podassembly is secured and properly positioned within the through-hole ofthe e-vaping device.

In another example, the connection may include a magnetic arrangement.For instance, a first magnet may be arranged in the side wall of thefirst connector element 37 and/or the second connector element 36, and asecond magnet may be arranged in the side surface of the pod assembly.The first and/or second magnets may be exposed or hidden from viewbehind a layer of material.

Example embodiments having thus been described, it will be obvious thatthe same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the intended spirit and scope of exampleembodiments, and all such modifications as would be obvious to oneskilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cartridge for an electronic vapor (e-vapor)apparatus, comprising: a pre-vapor formulation compartment configured tohold a pre-vapor formulation therein; a first connector configured toconnect the cartridge to a power section of the e-vapor apparatus, thefirst connector including a first prong; a processing device configuredto communicate with the power section, the processing device being incontact with (i) the first connector and (ii) the first prong; and ahousing surrounding at least a portion of the first connector, whereinthe processing device further includes a first pin configured to connectto the housing and provide a data communication line.
 2. The cartridgeof claim 1, wherein the first connector includes at least one powerconnector, the at least one power connector being configured to connectto the power section.
 3. The cartridge of claim 2, wherein the at leastone power connector includes the first prong and a second prong.
 4. Thecartridge of claim 3, wherein the second prong is spaced apart from thefirst prong to define a gap, and the second prong is not in contact withthe processing device.
 5. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein the firstand second prongs are configured to connect to battery contacts of thepower section.
 6. The cartridge of claim 2, wherein the first connectorincludes a first portion and a second portion divided by an indentedportion of the first connector, the indented portion defining an openingbetween the first portion and the second portion, the at least one powerconnector extends from the first portion to the second portion, and theprocessing device is coupled to the at least one power connector in thefirst portion.
 7. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the processingdevice is not connected to a printed circuit board (PCB).
 8. Thecartridge of claim 1, wherein the processing device is a cryptographiccoprocessor with non-volatile memory (CC-NVM).
 9. The cartridge of claim8, wherein the CC-NVM is configured to adjust cryptographic keys basedon vaping parameters.
 10. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein theprocessing device includes a second pin configured to connect to thefirst prong.
 11. An electronic vapor (e-vapor) apparatus comprising: afirst section including a controller; and a second section including apre-vapor formulation compartment configured to hold a solution therein;a first connector configured to connect the second section to the firstsection, the first connector including a first prong; a processingdevice configured to communicate with the controller, the processingdevice being in contact with (i) the first connector and (ii) the firstprong; and a housing surrounding at least a portion of the firstconnector, wherein the processing device further includes a first pinconfigured to connect to the housing and provide a data communicationline.
 12. The e-vapor apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first connectorincludes at least one power connector, the at least one power connectorbeing configured to connect to a power supply of the first section. 13.The e-vapor apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first connector includesa first portion and a second portion divided by an indented portion ofthe first connector, the indented portion defining an opening betweenthe first portion and the second portion, the at least one powerconnector extends from the first portion to the second portion, and theprocessing device is coupled to the at least one power connector in thefirst portion.
 14. The e-vapor apparatus of claim 11, wherein theprocessing device is not connected to a printed circuit board (PCB). 15.The e-vapor apparatus of claim 11, wherein the processing device is acryptographic coprocessor with non-volatile memory (CC-NVM).
 16. Thee-vapor apparatus of claim 15, wherein the CC-NVM is configured toadjust cryptographic keys based on vaping parameters.
 17. The e-vaporapparatus of claim 11, wherein the first prong is coupled to: (i) afirst side of the processing device and (ii) a second side of theprocessing device, and the first prong is configured to connect to abattery contact of the first section.
 18. The e-vapor apparatus of claim12, wherein the at least one power connector further includes a secondprong, the second prong being spaced apart from the first prong todefine a gap, and the second prong is not in contact with the processingdevice.
 19. The e-vapor apparatus of claim 11, wherein the processingdevice includes a second pin configured to connect to the first prong.